Press Release – Wellington Fashion Week
Ashley Fogel has today announced the discontinuation of his leading New Zealand fashion label that has borne great national and international success.

After more than 40 years of designing and manufacturing iconic women’s clothing in Wellington, Fogel will now focus on his personal health and well-being.

“After having a heart attack in April and double bypass surgery [thereafter], it’s now time to prioritise”, he said.

The Ashley Fogel label is intrinsically defined by high quality tailoring and femininity; aspects that the New Zealand and international fashion scenes have adored for many years.

Ashley Fogel showcased its Summer 2012 collection at the inaugural Wellington Fashion Week in April, and was a crowd favourite on the opening evening, with a standout presence and upbeat flare.

News of Fogel’s decision to cease production has been greeted with great sadness by the industry, with Chris Hales owner of Goodness Boutique, a stockist of the Fogel label, defining the news as devastating.

“I am hugely saddened by the news; Ashley Fogel is such an iconic brand which exuberantly personifies his innate passion for what he does. I’m very sorry to see him go”.

The decision is also indicative of a tougher economic climate and the surge of online international retail channels.

The Wellington Fashion Week team extends gratitude and appreciation to Ashley for his undying contribution to the Wellington fashion scene, and wish him and his family all the very best for the future.